All About Almonds

Did you know that almonds are actually grown on an orchard and are encased in a fruit-like shell? They are also a part of the rose family, making them close relatives to peaches and apricots!  Here’s another fun fact: there are eight different species of almonds, but they all have the same exact nutritional value! Almonds are a great source of protein, fiber, vitamin E and antioxidants. They are also a heart healthy fat!

Almond Products

Besides almonds being in their natural form (nut), you can also have almonds other ways!

• Almond Milk: Almond milk is an excellent source of protein and is super easy to substitute with other types of milk in things like cereal or smoothies. You can buy almond milk at almost any grocery store nowadays, but you can also make your own! There are tons of yummy recipes for this online – although the process seems lengthy and involved, it’s definitely worth it!

• Almond Oil: Almond oil is super nutritious as it contains all the same nutrients as plain, raw almonds. Even though almond oil is a terrific source of nutrients, it is best not used for cooking, but more as a topping to your meal. For instance, mixed with vinegar, salt and pepper, almond oil makes for a great, nutty tasting salad dressing. You can also add almond oil to your pasta at the end instead of olive oil for some added nutrients as well!

• Almond Flour: Almond flour is full of protein and can be a fun alternative if you are looking to switch up an old favorite recipe. Just be aware, its higher fat content leads to a slightly moister texture then some of the other flour alternatives. You will also not need to use as much liquid, but always include eggs with the almond flour to help the baked good rise.

4 Ways to Eat More Almonds

1. Plain – Almonds make a fantastic afternoon snack – just throw a couple in a ziplock bag and go! You can also make a trail mix with almonds, raisins (or craisins), other dried fruit, peanuts and chocolate chips or M&Ms for another sweet twist!

2. With Breakfast – Almonds go great with many different kinds of cereals or with your morning yogurt! You can add them in whole or chop them up – they’re delicious either way!

3. For Dinner – There are a ton of different recipes that include almonds – including my original recipe for Almond Crusted Honey Mustard Salmon (Check it out here). All you need is salmon, ground almonds, yellow mustard, honey, olive oil and lemon juice! It’s super easy and tasty!

4. For Dessert – One of my favorite ways to include almonds at dessert is with my recipe for baked pears (check it out here). This one is really easy to make, really healthy, and really good! All you need are ripe pears, slivered almonds, dried cranberries and cinnamon.

Almonds are a very versitalie nut and can be easily incorporated into many of your favorite dishes! Don’t be afraid to get creative – it can be a fun way to add a crunch to foods like chicken, fish or even desserts.

Your Turn to Take Action:How will you incorporate almonds into your diet? Let me know in the comments below.

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